How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are plenty of options depending on whether you're looking for a stroller to travel with or a lightweight, compact one to bring with you. We've put them to the test to help you select the ideal travel stroller for your requirements.
A lightweight stroller that is smooth and easy to drive across various terrains. It folds down into a tiny carrying bag that fits into most airplane overhead bins.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can be folded into a compact package which can be easily stored in overhead bins of planes or trunks of cars. It is recommended to look for models that fold with one hand, and without having to stoop. Some strollers come with a handy strap that allows you to easily carry it over your shoulders when it's not in use. If you're planning to walk a lot on your travels, a stroller that has an ample basket underneath the seat can be useful. It can accommodate large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we've test, weighing just 13.7 pounds and fitting down aisles in airplanes or overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver through crowds in city streets. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain, or quick outings.
Another lightweight option is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact design that's suitable for travel on air. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and offers an effortless ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other travel strollers that we tested, but is worthwhile for parents who use their strollers frequently when traveling.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, for instance the multi-purpose Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is simple to maneuver and can be folded or unfolded using just one hand. It is compatible with many major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension, swivels, and swivel wheels offer an easy ride across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The handlebar's height can be adjusted to suit parents of all heights.
Contours takes popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for travelers. Their stroller weighs less than the lighter Pockit however it has a sturdy frame, dynamic dual-wheel suspension and the UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It has a self standing fold that is simple to fold. It also comes with a handy carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
It is important to choose a stroller that is easy to maneuver on all kinds of terrain. This is especially important when you plan to use your stroller for adventures or hikes where you might encounter rough terrain. Choose a stroller with a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to hold the ground in a secure manner. It should be lightweight and easy to carry so you can easily lift, carry, or even store it.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly reviewed umbrella stroller that is made for travel. It's a great option for parents who are looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use product that includes features that many families desire in a stroller designed for travel. They include a compact folding mechanism and an extended canopy.
It's a bit harder to push than other smaller travel strollers, but it handles well on a variety terrains and is easy turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a rated stroller. It's more expensive than many of the other travel strollers we've reviewed however it has many features that many parents want in a stroller for travel. It has an easy-to-use handlebar and is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our ratings and has an elegant, minimalist design that makes it look almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's also a little lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and scores the highest score for quality than the other small travel strollers we've test.
The Doona is another excellent stroller for travel that is FAA approved for use in aircrafts (with the latch base) and requires zero set-up. It's also sturdy and comfortable to use with a number of children. It's a little more expensive than some of the other options in our reviews, but it's made with high-quality materials and was awarded a top score for ease-of-use. It comes with accessories, such as an umbrella and a rain cover, which other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to give your child a comfortable ride. Make sure you choose models that are cushioned and come with a large canopy. They must also recline, which is crucial for those who plan to use the stroller to nap during your travels. Also, make sure the seat is appropriate for your child's size. Some travel strollers may be designed to be as compact and lightweight as they can be, but this can compromise comfort.
There are a variety of options that combine design and comfort. For example, the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and sturdy. Its aluminum frame will last for a long time, and its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness ensure an enjoyable ride. The Coya features an enormous canopy that provides great sun protection.
Another option that is worth considering is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller that is designed to make travel with kids as easy as it can be. It comes with a single-hand fold mechanism and is light enough to fit in the trunk of a car or overhead bins on airplanes. It is also available with a wide range of accessories and customization options including weather shields, sun canopies and snack tray.
If push chair you are seeking a travel buggy that can also function as an everyday stroller, then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a great option. The spacious stroller moves smoothly and has all the features parents love including cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and it comes with a UPF50+ canopy with the ability to peek out through the mesh.
A good choice for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with various infant car seats. It's a great option for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and mobility make it easy to navigate through busy airports and cities.
A stroller that is used for travel should be comfortable for you and your child. Select a stroller with a large, padded seat that can recline to allow naps during long trips. The seat should also have an adequately cushioned leg rest since this can provide an extra comfortable ride. Make sure you choose a stroller with a padded handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many strollers designed for travel fold to a size that allows them to be carried in small car trunks or overcrowded overhead bins. These strollers are typically lighter than 10 pounds and simple to carry by anyone, including children.
UPPAbaby was one of the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as an everyday stroller" category, and its Minu remains an excellent choice for light-packing parents who do not want to worry about having their stroller checked at the gate every time they travel. This stroller that is IATA-certified can be tucked away in the majority of overhead bins, and can be moved like a dream off the plane, and comes with various smart features (including folding with one hand, massive sunshade, a comfy seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, padded handbar with a wrist strap and an easy foot brake that is one step).
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that feels like a luxurious option. It's not the prettiest model or the smallest in our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame, and lots of innovative features, such as a reclining mechanism and a padded brake. It also has a large basket underneath the carriage, and an easy fold with one hand. It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging with 10 years of transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, thanks to its slim profile and practical features. In our tests, it maneuvered easily over a variety of surfaces including shag and wood carpet and its bottom storage basket is big enough for a backpack. The only drawback is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting into the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have a lot of space to store your stroller, you may think about purchasing a bike shed. You can also design an area specifically for it. A garden shed is the perfect place to store a stroller since it's weather resistant and protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you require it. A shed or nook can also be used as a secure place to store your stroller in the event that it's stolen or lost when you're out.